Dikshit suggests larger role for Aadhaar numbers

Chief minister Sheila Dikshit has suggested the inclusion of Aadhaar (unique identification) numbers on university degrees and birth certificates.

"Our government would put all nine centrally sponsored schemes relevant for Delhi on Aadhaar-enabled direct cash transfer mode by April 2013," said Dikshit, who said she would ask the departments to look into the possibility.

She added that the city would achieve 95% Aadhaar enrollment target by February 2013. Dikshit said that out of 34 schemes launched by the central government for direct cash transfer, only nine are relevant in Delhi.

Dikshit was expressing these views in her inaugural address in a daylong state level workshop on Aadhaar enabled direct cash transfer organised by Delhi e-Governance society at Delhi Secretariat.

"Each Aadhaar number is unique to an individual and remains valid for life. UID number helps in accessing to various services. The unique identification is a revolutionary method to overcome bogus beneficiaries and duplication too," added Dikshit.

Delhi government had made UID cards compulsory for accessing most of the government's services. Revenue department had already made it compulsory last year.

Figures released in August state a total of 1.3 crore Delhiites had enrolled themselves for the project in the first phase. The second phase has already started. According to the officials, approximately 40 lakh more people will be added.